The Outsiders

For three to six months out of the year (sometimes longer if you live farther north), a jacket is the first thing others see on you. Sure, a big, puffy coat handed down from a much older cousin with a penchant for cat imprints is warm, but what impression is it giving? Your clients want coats that not only make the wearer look good, but their brand too. Here are 10 things to keep in mind as you sell gear for winter 2014/2015.

1. Stick with What You Know

When it comes to promotional hard goods, the basic premise is simple: pick item, add logo. Jeff Silcock, marketing manager for Stormtech Performance Apparel, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, explained that jackets are no different. "End-buyers are typically looking for a good quality, functional and stylish jacket that matches the company colors and can be decorated without jeopardizing the integrity of the jacket," he said.

2. Match the Material to the Job

Jessica Strain, marketing manager for Dri Duck Traders, Overland Park, Kan., pointed out that the type of material may change depending on the market and promotion. "A rugged cotton canvas may be ideal for someone who is working outdoors on a construction site, while a more technical jacket with four-way stretch may be ideal for someone who works in the transportation industry and is climbing in and out of a truck all day," she said.

3. ... and the Preferred Decoration Method

Silcock added that decoration needs to be taken into account when picking a material. "By answering these questions an easier decision can be made to determine the ideal fabric, level of waterproofing/breathability, and whether you need additional insulation," he said. "As our decoration applications continue to expand, it becomes more important that the chosen decoration technique is going to work on the garment fabric."